Hands on: Lenovo Thinkpad Twist S230U Windows 8 convertible laptop

Announced one month ago, the Lenovo ThinkPad Twist uses an intriguing “transforming” mechanism, essentially a twist-and-fold one like the Yoga and also similar to the Lynx.

Unlike its relatives, the Twist (or Thinkpad S230U) is powered by an Ivy-Bridge-based Intel Core i5 processor (i3 and i7 options are available as well) and is part of the business-slanted ThinkPad family, hence a number of familiar features: the “nipple” TrackPoint, the three-key touchpad, the oversized ThinkPad logo, and a generally exquisite attention to detail are all prominent aspects of this device.

There’s also a 12.5in IPS display with a touch sensor, and a 1,366 x 768 pixel resolution. However, we were slightly disappointed by the black glossy finish of the screen’s bezel, which seems at odds with the matte greyish rubber finish of the keyboard enclosure.

We were also concerned by the single hinge that holds the display in place despite the assurances given by our Lenovo contact that the device is the epitome of stability.

As for the features, the laptop is powered by Windows 8 Pro and has a mini DisplayPort connector, two USB 3.0 ports, a mini HDMI port, a SIM card slot, a SD card slot, an Ethernet port and an audio connector.

The Twist will be available in the UK in December, with pricing expected to be announced shortly.